Ronald Heinrich Kleinenberg

1958 - 2015

Ronald Heinrich Kleinenberg, 57 years old, passed away unexpectedly on September 21, 2015 at his home in Juneau, Alaska. Ron was born on August 30, 1958 in Saaksum, Netherlands to Albertus and Louise Kleinenberg. At the age of 4, Ron and his family moved from the Netherlands to Turkey and lived there for five years. The family later moved to Anchorage, Alaska in November 1967 and then moved to Juneau in 1973, where Ron lived until his passing. Ron worked for the University of Alaska, Juneau and also for the State of Alaska for many years in various positions. In 1997, Ron quit his state job to work and help his life partner, Richard Porria in managing his gift shops in downtown Juneau.

Growing up in Juneau, Ron made many, many long lasting friendships and relationships. He'll be remembered for his quick wit and humor, always the standout in the crowd. He was so full of energy he would light up the room. He would walk up to complete strangers and walk away with new friends. He was a talented artist and loved drawing and sketching family members. Watching Ron sketch a picture was like watching a magician perform. His pictures came to life in just a matter of minutes.

Ron was preceded in death by his beloved mother Louise Kleinenberg, who passed away February 16, 2015. Ron is survived by his life partner of 32 years, Richard Porria and their beloved dog Tuff; Ron's father, Bert Kleinenberg (and wife Ardie) of Big Lake, Alaska; brother Ben Kleinenberg (and wife Terri) of Big Lake Alaska; sister Thea Nelson (and husband Ronald) of Juneau, Alaska; sister Rose More – location unknown. He also leaves behind his nephews Tony Nelson (and partner Kelso Barrera) and Andy Nelson (and partner Emiliano Ruiz) of Juneau, Alaska.

A celebration of life for Ron will be scheduled this coming spring of 2016, date to be determined and will be posted.

A small private ceremony of the releasing of Ron's ashes was held at his favorite spot at Gold Creek in Cope Park, Juneau Alaska, on September 27, 2015. Ron would say, "Just sitting here on this rock, listening and watching the flow of water calms me and gives me inner peace of mind". A letter, "Ronald's Ashes" written by his life partner, Richard Porria, was read aloud while the cool, blue waters of Gold Creek flowed by; white roses, sunflowers and tulips were released by family members and close friends each saying their prayers and good-byes to Ron.

Now go in free spirit. Let the fresh, cool waters carry you afar and know you are loved and missed by everyone who was blessed to have known you.

If love could have saved you, you would have lived forever.

Inscription from a coin that Ron carried in his pocket; "Serenity isn't freedom from the storm, it's the Peace within the storm."

A Facebook memorial page is set up for those who knew Ron and for those who would like to share their memories, fun times and photos. (Facebook search; Ronald H Kleinenberg Memorial). For those who do not use Facebook. Ron's obituary and memories, thoughts and prayers can also be shared at www.legacyalaska.com and/or at www.legacy.com/obituaries/juneauempire/.
These entries will be copied over into Ron's Facebook Memorial page.